In your opinion

[skipthebull]

what is the best time to dine to avoid crowds and still get good service? I think if we go with light lunches and set our dinner reservations for 4:30pm, we might miss the big crowds? Can you order off the dinner menus at that time? TIA!

 

[Andy B]

4.30 is afternoon tea time.

 

[Kitka]

We set ours for 5 - 5:30 usually. In and out before the crowds really set in, but late enough that it still feels like 'dinner'.

 

[travellovingirl]

We like to make ADRs at 5:30 before it gets too crowded. Result... less wait time before you are seated, and better service. I also think that since there isn't such a large rush, it's easier to get your food because the chefs don't have as many people to cook for and the waiters are less busy.

 

[Andy B]

We went in August in Free DDP and made ADRs for near 7pm and had little wait time wherever we ate.

 

[trex220]

I think if we go with light lunches and set our dinner reservations for 4:30pm, we might miss the big crowds?

It depends on which restaurants you choose. Some don't open until 5:30 or even 6. I know that Narcoossee's and Yachtsman Steakhouse don't open until 5:30. We've been to both at 5:30 and were seated quickly -- both restaurants were pretty empty. They did, however, fill up rather quickly.

 

[Eeyore's Pal]

WDW restaurants are not open continuously from breakfast through dinner, even if they serve all three meals. Many restaurants close after the last lunch reservation (3:30ish) and do not reopen until 5:00 or 5:30.

We are late risers and usually eat dinner late anyway -- 8 PM. We have found that dining when the restaurant is emptying out can be very relaxing. The staff is no longer frantic, the characters come around extra as the number of occupied tables drops, and everyone is more happy to chat. On our January trip to 1900 we had a blast with the characters because there were so few guests left!

JMHO, but those early dinners are often packed with lots of kids, many of whom are cranky from a long day in the parks.

 

[BabyPiglet]

We set ours to 1-2-3 o'clock. Light crowds, nice service, great food.

Plus just then most people are tired, and a nice lunch is a great way to perk ya right back up.